![[2013 Japanese Hit Songs] Masterpieces that Colored the Ama-chan Boom, Group Popularity, and the Band Scene](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/dFf4AgBNR1E/sddefault.jpg)
[2013 Japanese Hit Songs] Masterpieces that Colored the Ama-chan Boom, Group Popularity, and the Band Scene
Japan’s music scene in 2013 was truly a year of “diversity” and “phenomena.” The smash hit NHK morning drama Amachan sparked a social phenomenon, with its insert song Shiosai no Memory and its theme song, ushering in a revival boom of 1980s idol pop.
Meanwhile, the idol warring era—led by the AKB48 groups—reached its peak, and Koi Suru Fortune Cookie became a nationally beloved dance song.
In the rock band scene, acts like SEKAI NO OWARI and CreepHyp rose to prominence, with new talent blossoming one after another.
The expansion of the digital distribution market also accelerated, marking a turning point in how people listened to music.
In this article, we look back at the hit songs that colored 2013—from award-winning works to timeless karaoke favorites.
2013 Japanese Hit Songs: Legendary Tracks That Colored the Ama-chan Boom, Group Popularity, and the Band Scene (1–10)
Fortune Cookie in LoveAKB48
Released in August 2013, this single is a milestone as the first to feature Rino Sashihara—who won first place in the 5th General Election—as center.
Yasushi Akimoto’s lyrics deliver a positive message: even on unlucky days, opening a fortune cookie can change your destiny, lifting your spirits.
With a four-on-the-floor beat reminiscent of ’80s disco, a catchy melody, and an easy-to-follow dance choreographed by Papaya Suzuki, it sold about 1.33 million copies in its first week.
It received numerous tie-ins, including serving as the theme song for Fuji TV’s “Odaiba Gasshukoku 2013,” and sparked a nationwide social phenomenon with “tried dancing” videos from workplaces and local governments.
It’s a bright, fun dance tune that’s perfect for getting everyone hyped at karaoke with friends or at events.
Star Lablationkerakera
Released in 2013, this is Kerakera’s second single, which was selected as the theme song for the drama “Last Cinderella.” The song portrays a woman who, though awkward, keeps moving forward with positivity.
Its bright, catchy melody and powerful lyrics are especially appealing.
The message—finding the courage to take a step while laughing through tears, and a smile that shines beyond one’s weaknesses—truly resonates.
MEME’s transparent, airy vocals and the up-tempo sound feel refreshing, and the track proved so popular it earned Platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of Japan.
It’s the perfect song when you want a boost of optimism or to get everyone hyped at karaoke with friends.
Peace and highlightSazan Ōrusutāzu
Released in August 2013 as their first comeback work in about five years, this song is a socially conscious pop number befitting the milestone of their 35th debut anniversary.
A lively rock sound is embellished by a horn section, and the lyrics distinctively take a bird’s-eye view of tensions with neighboring countries and tangled historical perceptions.
It carries a message of reconciliation and peace through learning from the past and recognizing each other’s strengths, and it was also featured in a Volkswagen commercial.
The single reached No.
1 on the Oricon Weekly Chart, achieving a historic first: topping the singles chart across four decades—from the 1980s to the 2010s.
It’s a track that remains keenly attuned to social currents while offering comfort to those who wish to cherish everyday life.
Love’s Melody and Rainy SkiesAAA
With a tightening in the chest under rainy skies, the frustration of holding feelings you can’t put into words.
This song is a love ballad that gently weaves together that kind of bittersweet longing.
The feeling of love is real, yet fear of changing the relationship keeps you from taking a step forward.
That push-and-pull of love that everyone experiences overlaps with the image of autumn rain and hits close to the heart.
Released by AAA in September 2013 as their 38th single, this track won the Excellence Award at the 55th Japan Record Awards and was also performed on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
With male and female parts sung from their respective perspectives, it’s perfect for a karaoke duet.
When you’re troubled by a love that keeps missing the mark, this song is sure to gently stay by your side.
Kissing You of ApologyE-girls
Released in October 2013, this is E-girls’ sixth single and was chosen as the theme song for the film “The Apology King” starring Sadao Abe.
It’s a sprightly dance number driven by a four-on-the-floor beat and bright synths, brimming with an exhilarating momentum that makes you want to move.
The unique lyrics cheerfully and poppily sing about saying “I’m sorry,” and the relatively even melody line makes it easy to sing—perfect for getting hyped with friends at karaoke.
It peaked at No.
2 on the Oricon Weekly Chart and was later included on the following year’s album “COLORFUL POP,” making it one of E-girls’ signature tracks.
With its comical yet upbeat vibe, it’s a great pick-me-up when you need a boost.
Crimson Bow and ArrowLinked Horizon
Released by Linked Horizon in 2013 as the opening theme for the first season of the anime Attack on Titan.
The grand symphonic rock sound crafted by Revo powerfully conveys the brutal battles between humanity and the Titans on an overwhelming scale.
Beginning with a German phrase, the dramatic development instantly drew viewers into the world of the series.
Included on the single ‘Feuerroter Pfeil und Bogen’ (Japanese release title: ‘Jiyuu e no Shingeki’), the song sold approximately 129,000 copies in its first week and reached No.
2 on the Oricon Weekly Singles Chart.
This success led to Linked Horizon’s first appearance at the 64th NHK Kohaku Uta Gassen in 2013.
Depicting humanity’s determination to keep fighting even in hopeless circumstances, this track is one that gives you a push when you need the courage to face adversity.
RPGSEKAI NO OWARI
It’s a grand message song that likens life to an adventure.
After something precious once broke, the protagonist—who found themselves gazing alone at the starry sky—sets off toward the sea as their destination.
The lyrics, infused with a strong will to find one’s own answers without being swayed by public opinion or prescribed methods, are sure to give listeners a push forward.
Released in May 2013, the track was selected as the theme song for the film “Crayon Shin-chan: Very Tasty! B-Class Gourmet Survival!!,” marking SEKAI NO OWARI’s first tie-in with an animated feature.
With marching band-style bass drums and a symphonic arrangement, it instills the courage to keep moving ahead.
It’s the perfect song for moments when you’re about to take a new step or when you want to cherish the bonds with your friends.